beVisioneers: Empowering the Next Generation of Environmental Innovators Application Deadline: January 25, 2026 Young changemakers from around the world are invited to apply to the beVisioneers: The Mercedes-Benz Fellowship, a pioneering initiative designed to empower individuals aged 16 to 28 to implement local environmental projects with global impact In 2026, the program will welcome 1,000 new Fellows. The next cohort begins in May 2026, offering an intensive, year-long journey that equips participants with the tools, training, mentoring, and funding needed to bring their environmental ideas to life. Who Should Apply? The Fellowship seeks ambitious, passionate, and community-driven individuals who: Are between the ages of 16 and 28 Reside in and will remain in one of the participating countries during the program period Possess a good oral and written command of English Are committed to addressing an environmental issue in their local context or beyond May or may not have previous entrepreneurial experience No prior experience is required—just a genuine passion and drive to contribute to a sustainable future through eco-innovation. What Is beVisioneers: The Mercedes-Benz Fellowship? Launched in 2023, beVisioneers: The Mercedes-Benz Fellowship is a global initiative developed and implemented by The DO School Fellowships and funded by Mercedes-Benz. The Fellowship is rooted in the belief that young people are powerful agents of change and that, when equipped with the right resources and support, they can create transformative solutions for the planet. The program offers a multi-year fellowship journey, beginning with a 12-month intensive phase that requires a minimum commitment of 24 hours per month. Fellows are guided through every stage of their project development by experienced coaches, mentors, and a dynamic global peer network. Key features of the Fellowship include: Award-winning innovation training through online modules Local Hub gatherings and a Regional Summit Regular access to expert venture coaches One-on-one mentorship with leaders in sustainability and entrepreneurship Peer support and global networking Project scholarships of up to €20,000 after the first year Following the foundational year, Fellows are supported as they continue to grow their projects, expand their leadership capabilities, and strengthen local environmental impact through an ongoing alumni community. What Does the Application Process Involve? The application process is designed to identify inventive, ambitious, and resourceful individuals ready to take the next step in their environmental leadership journey. It consists of three main sections and takes approximately 30–40 minutes to complete. 1. Written Application Applicants provide the following: Personal and contact information A description of their environmental challenge and idea for addressing it Information about learning goals and financial needs Completion of a brief Self-Assessment Test Upload of a scanned passport or national ID This section helps the selection team understand the applicant’s background, motivation, and how the Fellowship can best support their development. 2. Video Interview Applicants must record a short video (up to 3 minutes) via the application platform. In the video, candidates are asked to: Introduce themselves Explain the environmental issue they care about Describe their idea to address it Note: Applications submitted without a video interview will not be considered. 3. Financial Support Application (Optional) This final section is only for those who require financial assistance to participate in the Fellowship. It includes: A reference request: Applicants must provide the email address of a referee (not a family member) who is currently employed and can confirm the applicant’s living situation. The referee will receive a link to submit their reference. An income declaration: Applicants must provide accurate information about their monthly income sources directly in the form. Why Apply? beVisioneers offers much more than a traditional fellowship. It is an opportunity to become part of a global network of young environmental leaders, gain real-world experience in innovation and sustainability, and access the tools needed to make a measurable difference. Fellows will benefit from: Hands-on, real-world project development support Connection with local and global sustainability leaders Skills training in areas such as design thinking, communication, project management, and fundraising An international alumni community of like-minded changemakers The potential to receive up to €20,000 in project funding A Fellowship Backed by Global Commitment Funded by Mercedes-Benz and operated by The DO School Fellowships, beVisioneers is built on a commitment to environmental innovation, social equity, and youth empowerment. The program is deeply aligned with global efforts to advance the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), especially those related to climate action, clean energy, sustainable cities, and responsible consumption. Help Us Find the Next 1,000 Fellows To reach as many passionate young individuals as possible, beVisioneers invites educators, community leaders, sustainability advocates, and organizations to help spread the word. Sharing this opportunity widely within networks ensures that the most promising changemakers are given the chance to step forward. Promotional materials and further details about the Fellowship are available at the official website here Start Your beVisioneers Journey For young innovators passionate about addressing environmental challenges, this Fellowship offers an unparalleled opportunity to make a real impact. Applications opened on 17 September 2025. Those ready to turn their ideas into action are encouraged to apply and take the first step in their beVisioneers journey. Apply now and help build a sustainable future. For more opportunities such as these please follow us on Facebook, Instagram , WhatsApp, Twitter, LinkedIn and Telegram Disclaimer: Global South Opportunities (GSO) is not the awarding organization. For any inquiries, please contact hiring organization directly. Please do not send your applications to GSO, as we are unable to process them. Due to the high volume of emails we receive daily, we may not be able to respond to all inquiries. Thank you for your understanding.